Former Columbiana County fugitive sentenced

LISBON, Ohio - A Mahoning County man who nearly ran down a Columbiana County Deputy before leading authorities on a lengthy manhunt has been sentenced to spend five to six years in prison.
Ricardo Gonzalez Jr., 31, of New Springfield, who was scheduled to go on trial Tuesday, instead pleaded guilty to crimes, including felonious assault, fleeing and eluding, and possession of a deadly weapon while under detention.
According to prosecutors, on August 5, 2020, Gonzalez fled from Sheriff’s deputies, damaging a police cruiser, and nearly striking a deputy.
Gonzalez was then the subject of a long manhunt, ultimately being captured in October of 2020.
While awaiting trial, Gonzalez was found in possession of a homemade knife in his jail cell.
